ACADEMIC SUCCESS PROGRAM

students general study

Memphis Law offers an Academic Success Program (ASP) for first-year and upper-level students.

First Year Students

The Academic Success program helps students get off to a strong start with a required class (worth 1 credit each semester in the fall and spring of the 1L year) that teaches foundational skills and variety of resources that are essential to success in their first year of study.

First-year ASP consists of three components: asynchronous modules, synchronous class sessions, and one-on-one tutorials. The asynchronous modules and synchronous class sessions begin early in the fall and assist students in areas such as class preparation, case briefing, study skills, and exam preparation. The program director and other ASP faculty present some of the basic skills needed for success at Memphis Law.

One-on-one tutorials are offered to first-year students who have questions concerning their classes or want to improve their study skills. Tutorials are conducted in individual meetings led by highly accomplished upper-level students called Dean's Fellows.

Upper-Level Students

The ASP program is also available to upper-level students. Students can meet with Dean Aden, Director of the Academic Success Program, or with Professors Carina Fung and DeShun Harris to seek assistance. In addition, students can also meet with the Dean's Fellows for help with study skills, exam prep, outlining, etc. The program is free and is open to all upper-level students.

Dean's Fellows

Crystal Golden

Hello Tigers-In-Law! My name is Crystal Golden, and I am a non-traditional 3L. I was born in Hampton, VA and lived in several places before coming to Memphis, TN. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance, a Master of Business Administration, and possess four (4) graduate certificates.

During my 1L year, I was in Section 12 (whoop whoop!) and was elected to serve as my section's Bar Governor. The following year, I served as SBA's Elections Commissioner, and this year I am excited to serve as SBA President! Aside from SBA, I have been involved with the Access and Multicultural Affairs Office, Black Law Students Association, the Association for Women Attorneys, and other student lead organizations.

Additionally, I was chosen as the inaugural 1L Associate for a reputable firm whose history spans more than 100 years. I spent this past summer there as well, sharpening my skills. Outside of school, I love to travel, read, and spend time with friends and family.

I am honored to be returning as a Dean's Fellow this year and look forward to assisting with your journey through Memphis Law!

Natasha Jeffries

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Hello Everyone!

My name is Natasha Jeffries, and I’m a non-traditional 2L. I worked for attorneys for over fifteen years before finally taking the plunge and coming to law school. As a 1L, I was in Section 12, and I currently serve as the Treasurer for the Association of Women Attorneys. I also volunteer with CASA and am honored to spend my summer interning with ALSAC. Outside of the legal world, my kids and hot yoga bring me happiness.

Joining the Memphis Law family was truly the best decision I have ever made, and I am so excited to welcome you all to the fold! The challenges are significant, but we are here to support and guide you through this life-changing journey.

I look forward to getting to know each of you!

Celeste Robinette

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Greetings, all! My name is Celeste Robinette and I’m a 3L. Originally from Jonesboro, Arkansas, I embarked on a transformative journey to Memphis for my education at Rhodes College. What I love most about Memphis is the heart and soul of the city. Memphians embody an unwavering commitment to elevating our city that is rooted in the city’s history of civil rights activism. Here, amidst endless avenues for positive change, I'm driven to remain actively involved in our community's growth and prosperity. Join me in shaping the vibrant future of Memphis together!

During my law school career I’ve been a part of the Public Action Law society, the Association for Women Attorneys, the Advanced Moot Court Competition as a top advocate, and a member of Law Review. My 3L year I will serve as Co-President of American Constitutional Law Society and I am honored to be a Dean’s Fellow. Outside of law school I have worked extensively in healthcare liability and tort law. I am looking forward to contributing to this year's academic success program!

Kylei Sarwar

Hi friends! My name is Kylei and I am a rising 2L. I was born and raised around the Memphis area and graduated from Memphis State! (#GTG) While my time in undergrad, I got to experience the amazing opportunities our school offers us. I knew that Mem Law was the only school I wanted to go to and I’m sooooo glad I went to the U of M!

Over the summer, I was a summer associate at Baker Donelson in the Nashville office. I quickly grew to love and appreciate Nashville as a second home. During my time, I was able to experience a new side of the law. I'm so grateful my 1L year truly prepared me for the type of work I completed on a daily basis.

The ASP fellows set me on a path for success during my time as a 1L. They were always there to lend an ear or give helpful feedback when things just weren’t clicking for me. As such, they inspired me to do the same for all of you! Your 1L year will set you on a path to success, you just have to take it! I will be with each of you every step of the way.

Soak in every moment you have as you begin your new path. There will be ups, downs, and all arounds. Just remember, we are all here to support you. Welcome to Mem Law!